Into the West Challenge Ride 13th Aug - volunteer to lead?

[Dr Dave]

Apologies to all but for some reason this had completely slipped my mind until today when Graham asked me about it. Last year 8 of us completed a fantastic ride in the Dales - 140 miles with almost 9k feet of climbing - a splendid excuse to garner 3 points towards the Challenge series.
Regrettably I am unable to lead this years ride but I understand that a number of members are keen to take part. If any of last year's group (James?) would step forward this would be ideal, alternatively I am happy to supply the route details to anyone who is willing and able to take nominal charge.

[James Milner]

I actually did the Tan Hill ride last year, not this one. A number of us were discussing it on Saturday however and it looks like there's quite a bit of interest. If you want to send me the route, Dave, I'd be happy to lead. I think, given the distance and the amount of climbing involved an early start is certainly required. I would suggest no later than 8am, but if there are enough people willing to go off at 7 then that could be better still.

[bernard turgoose]

Well done James for putting yourself forward, if any one isn't able to do this ride on Saturday, then don't worry because there is a similar ride on Sunday with the Sunday group. Best wishes for another superb weekend,

[Dr Dave]

I've sent a PM James. If you have trouble getting it here's the route:

Helperby, Rainton, Melmerby, Thornborough, Thornton Steward, Middleham, Wensley, Askrigg, Hawes, Gayle,Fleet Moss, Buckden, Kettlewell, Park Rash, Coverdale, and East Whitton. Join the A6108 heading east for 2 miles then turn R/straight ahead at the 90 degree L hand bend and turn off towards Healey. Follow Newstead Lane up Stark Bank and then Crook Lane to Fearby and thence to Low Swinton and Grewelthorpe. Then it's Kirkby Malzeard, Winksley to Fountains Abbey, Markington, Burton Leonard, Staveley, Arkendale and Linton.

If the weather is hard-decent it will be a really good day out. If you leave at 8 you'll be back around 6:30/7ish if last year is anything to go by.

[James Milner]

Many thanks Dave. Route now created and loaded on to my Garmin. What can possibly go wrong?!!